The making of West Sumatra dish rendang

Indonesia’s economy has become a bright light amid global economic gloom, with strong growth drawing new attention from international investors. Officials say the country’s economic potential, however, is not the only thing worth promoting. An effort is underway to export the country’s cultural traditions to new audiences abroad.
    Two women wielding giant spatulas continuously stir a brimming wok of shredded beef simmering in curry sauce.(7)They have been at it for nearly eight hours—the typical amount of time required to prepare this famed dish from West Sumatra known as rendang. On this day they will serve nearly a hundred guests who have come to learn about rendang—how it’s made, its culinary roots and its historical importance.
    Indonesia’s economy recently made global news for growth that beat most economists’ expectations.(8)Strong domestic spending in the world’s fourth most populous country has sparked investor interest. But artists, culinary experts and some officials now say not enough attention is being paid to promoting the country’s cultural riches. Mari Pangestu, the head of the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, said that needs to change.